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Alzheimer's Test

A new research study released in findings in July of 2011 for their
Alzheimer's Blood Test
which showed great promise in the field of Alzheimer's research.

We have been looking for a conclusive Alzheimer's test for a long time.

The latest news release, coming out in April of 2011 from a study by the National Institute on Aging and the Alzheimer's Association, did not find that there was one definitive test that could be used alone to diagnosis Alzheimer's.

It did issue new guidelines for the early diagnosing and updated the medical community on new staging and diagnostic criteria.

It is unfortunate but it needs to be said:

There are no known treatments that can either halt the progression or cure the disease of Alzheimer's.

It remains a devastating diagnosis with no known cure or effective treatment. We hope, with continued research, that a cure will be discovered soon.

Diagnosing Alzheimer's

The first step in looking for a Alzheimer's diagnosis is to rule out other medical condition that may be mimicking the symptoms of Alzheimer's.

If you feel your loved one is experiencing any of the
10 warning signs
of Alzheimer's, the first thing you need to do is encourage them to get a full medical work up.

It should include a neurological exam as well as a physical exam and lab work. Depression can sometimes look like early Alzheimer's symptoms as well. It is important that your loved one get treated for depression if that is the case.

There are other medical conditions that can lead to memory loss so it is important to rule them out first.

Diagnostic Imaging

One Alzheimer's test that has been performed for years is utilizing imaging to determine if there are structural changes in the brain itself.

For years, end stage Alzheimer's has shown brain degeneration on CT Scans and MRI's.

Now, with the new guidelines, scientists can look for the presence of amyloid plaques and other physical symptoms that may appear prior to the development of symptoms.

Image testing may happen after the full medical exam performed by your loved one's physician. Know that CT Scans and MRI's can be frightening, especially if they are claustrophobic or have any anxiety issues.

Make sure to let the doctor know if these conditions exist. The lab can make arrangements to have your loved one be given a sedative prior to the exam.